How can I tell if an illness is making me tired?

Most people feel tired from time to time. Maybe your kids kept you up all night, or perhaps you’ve spent the past week up late studying for a test. It is normal to feel tired every now and again.

However, if you are constantly tired regardless of how much sleep you are getting, it could be a sign of something serious. Fatigue is a leading indicator in a number of illnesses. So, how can you tell if an illness is making you tired?

Consider some of the following illnesses where fatigue as a symptom:

Thyroid Issues

The thyroid is a gland that produces hormones that keep your cells functioning at a normal pace. If your thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones, then you experience a slowed heart rate, constipation, dry skin, weight gain and slowed metabolism, among other symptoms. One of the main symptoms of a thyroid condition is feeling excessively tired.

At the same time, if your thyroid is producing too much, you could experience the opposite of those symptoms such as weight loss and rapid heartbeat. At the same time, however, fatigue is a symptom as well. If you feel you may have a thyroid condition, speak with your doctor. Whether your thyroid produces too much or too little hormone, it is easily treated and your fatigue will go away.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

If you have been consistently tired for more than six months, regardless of how much sleep you get, you may have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS). People with CFS are typically so tired they have trouble doing about their daily activities. They typically also have a number of ongoing symptoms such as headaches, tired even when you wake up, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating.

There is no known cure for CFA at this time and little is known about it. However, many doctors will help by prescribing medication for the symptoms, such as headaches or joint pain. They will also encourage their patients to eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, get exercise and get a consistent amount of sleep.

Diabetes

Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin. Insulin is needed to help your body absorb glucose, which is the main source of energy in your body. If you are unable to absorb that glucose, you will in turn feel fatigued and out of energy, which is a major symptom of diabetes. Other symptoms include weight loss and constant hunger and thirst.

Depending on your type of diabetes, it can be managed with exercise, a proper diet and in some cases doctors will prescribe extra medication and insulin shots.

Depression

One of the major symptoms of depression is fatigue and constant tiredness, lack of energy, lack of motivation and general feelings of sadness or a loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, including spending time with family and friends. Loss of appetite is also a symptom.

Depression is very treatable with different types of medication, therapy or lifestyle changes. Your doctor can help you to determine the right treatment program for you.

It’s normal to feel tired on occasion. However, it is not normal if you are constantly tired or you are still tired after consistently getting a good night’s sleep. This could be the indication of a more serious illness, like the ones listed above. If you are concerned that your fatigue is the result of something more serious, talk to your doctor.